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        <title>Frisco Home Center Real Estate Blog</title>
        <link>http://www.friscohomecenter.com/blog/</link>
        <description>Musings and miscellaneous information on buying homes in Frisco, TX</description>
        <item>
            <guid>http://www.friscohomecenter.com/blog/latest-market-stats-frisco-is-heating-up.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.friscohomecenter.com/blog/latest-market-stats-frisco-is-heating-up.html</link>
            <author>Sammy@FriscoHomeCenter.com (Sammy Gardner)</author>
            <title>Latest Market Stats - Frisco is Heating Up!</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
The latest MLS Stats are out and the news is good!  Frisco is one of the only major Collin County Cities with positive numbers across the board.  In Frisco the number of sales in March went up 6% over last year.  Better yet, sales prices are up 9% and days on the market for listings is down 18%. This is turning out to be a great Spring.  If you have been waiting for the market to turn around to buy or sell, this may be the time to make a move!
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            <pubDate>Thu, 12 Apr 2012 11:29:34 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.friscohomecenter.com/blog/buying-a-new-homedo-i-need-a-realtor.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.friscohomecenter.com/blog/buying-a-new-homedo-i-need-a-realtor.html</link>
            <author>Sammy@FriscoHomeCenter.com (Sammy Gardner)</author>
            <title>Buying a New Home...Do I Need a Realtor?</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
This question comes up often from buyers who think they may be able to get a better deal if they go directly to a builder  or to a seller to  negotiate their own purchase.  They think that by eliminating a Realtor on their side, they can save the amount that would be due to the Realtor as compensation for representing them.   In today’s market, I completely understand the necessity of negotiating the lowest possible price for your home.   However, you should use caution before trying this.    Most real estate transactions today well exceed $100,000.   If you have a tax issue or a legal issue that involves this amount of money, it is doubtful that you would consider tackling these issues without a CPA or an attorney.  In the same way, you should consider having a Realtor assist you with your purchase. 




While the average homebuyer may purchase 4 or 5 new homes in their lifetime, many builder representatives will sell that many per month.   They will almost always have much more experience than you do.


The “builder representative” is just that….he or she represents the builder and has a fiduciary responsibility to maximize the builder’s profit centers.  Always remember that nothing is free.  While, the builder may “give” you something, they will always find a way to make up that gift.


Realtors know the reputation of the builders.  We never want to hear from a dissatisfied client about a builder that will not address a warranty issue.  Our office tracks the JD Powers rankings of area builders.  So, we not only rely on our own experience in dealing with these various builders but we rely on what homeowners across the Metroplex have said about their experiences.


Often times a Realtor that has brought multiple buyers to a builder will be able to leverage that in order to assist a buyer in negotiating a better deal than the buyer could do on their own.    Our brokerage office does a lot of volume in new home sales and is repeatedly among the top producers with the areas reputable builders.  Therefore, the builders like to keep us and our buyers happy and will work hard to make a deal happen.


A good Realtor will discourage a buyer from even looking at a home that will not have strong resale potential.   A good Realtor will be honest with you about lot choices and any deficiencies that might make a home you are considering difficult to sell in the future.  Most good Realtors will discourage a buyer from buying a home that backs to a busy road or to some other structure that would be less desirable to a future buyer.  They know that if you are happy with their services, you may ask them to assist you in selling the property in the future.  A builder’s representative, will never face helping you sell the home in the future.  They are only concerned about the one sale.


A good Realtor can help you determine how much home you can afford.  We always tell our clients that we want their pets to be housebroken….not them!  Additionally, Realtors can often assist in suggesting a good resource for mortgage financing.  In today’s rapidly changing market, it is important to work with someone that understands all of the new regulations and that works diligently to ensure that your transaction goes smoothly.


A good Realtor can also help you understand the property tax implications of any home you are considering.  For example, in Frisco, TX, there are two different counties, four different school districts and a community college district that covers one of the counties.  So, property tax rates vary depending upon where you live.  It is important to ensure that you have someone that can help you understand the differences.


A good Realtor will help you understand current real estate values,  impacts of home owner assocations, and any local zoning issues that could affect your decision to buy. 


A good Realtor will have access to the Multiple Listing Service and will be able to assist you even if much of your home search is happening over the internet in another city.


A good Realtor will have a network of other Realtors who share information about “pocket” listings, homes soon to come on the market, etc.  They will know the history of many properties and will have resources available to search out answers to your questions.


A good Realtor will take the time to listen to what your needs and preferences are.  They should be able to assist you in finding the best location considering your commute.  They should help you consider your needs with respect to schools, transportation, shopping and other personal preferences.


A good Realtor should be able to suggest innovative and creative changes that would make a home most suitable for you.  They should assist you by suggesting improvements that could enhance a home’s utility and value.  They should also be honest and cautionary with respect to any upgrades that could “over-improve” a home. 


A good Realtor will assist you in facilitating a negotiation on a purchase that creates a “win-win” for all parties.  They understand that negotiations are part of the process and should be honest and fair in their dealings with all parties.




We can tell you story after story of individuals that purchased homes without a good Realtor.  They ended up looking at a home and fell in love with the décor or decorating style of the sellers.  They looked at the homes despite the fact the home backed to an empty lot that was zoned for light commercial, or had over-head power lines, or had a postage stamp sized back yard, or had a two-car garage when others in the neighborhood all had three….  Now, they all wish they could sell and can’t understand their bad luck.   Make sure this doesn’t happen to you.   Research and find a good buyer’s representative to assist you in your next purchase. 


Sammy Gardner 972-731-5999 or (Toll-Free) 877-374-7356
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            <pubDate>Tue, 10 Apr 2012 11:50:29 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.friscohomecenter.com/blog/frisco-to-hold-veterans-career-fair-on-april-4-2012.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.friscohomecenter.com/blog/frisco-to-hold-veterans-career-fair-on-april-4-2012.html</link>
            <author>Sammy@FriscoHomeCenter.com (Sammy Gardner)</author>
            <title>Frisco to Hold Veterans' Career Fair on April 4, 2012</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
I am so proud to live in this great city. On April 4, Frisco will be hosting a Career Fair specifically for veterans who are looking for work or who are simply considering a career change. The event will be held at the Frisco Discovery Center located at 8004 Dallas Parkway. The event is a come and go event for veterans only and will be open from10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Veterans will need to provide proof of their military service in order to participate.The City of Frisco along with the Mayor's Veterans Advisory Committee have arranged for the particpation of 30 companies and organizations. Each of the participating companies will have representatives on-site and will pay a fee along with other donations toparticipate. Proceeds will benefit the Frisco VFW Post 8273, which is currently working tohonor our veterans with a memorial "Veterans Walk of Honor" to be established inFrisco Commons Park.

 "We want to do all we can to help our veterans find job opportunities,"said Mayor Maher Maso. "We owe our gratitude to the men and women whohave served our country to protect our liberties. Here in Frisco, we alsowant to do our part to help introduce companies to this highly trained anddedicated pool of job candidates."Earlier this month the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported theunemployment rate for veterans who served on activeduty in the U.S. Armed Forces at any time since September 2001 was 12.1percent in 2011. They also cited the jobless rate for all veteranswas 8.3 percent last year.Veterans should bring plenty of resumes along with them. However, if theyneed help in creating or updating a resume, representatives of the TexasWorkforce Commission will be on hand to assist. Furthermore, Worldlink, Inc.will be providing tips on writing cover letters, professional dress, and performingwell in interviews. Some of the particpating companies include: A#1Air Inc.,Acuity TrainingSystems, Inc., Allies in Service, American Legion, AT&amp;T,Baylor Institute for Rehabilitation, BB&amp;T, Cintas, Code Authority, Inc.,Con-Way, Core Concept Communications, Dallas Air Motive, Dr. Options, DrPepper Snapple Group, Ericsson, Extend Health, Iraq &amp; Afghanistan Veteransof America, Jet Pay Merchant, Kaplan College, Lennox International, FriscoISD, Mario Sinacola &amp; Sons, Medical Center of Plano, Statewide Remodeling,Technisource, Texas Instruments, ThyssennKrupp, University of Phoenix andVOLT.Others supporting the job fair include PRISMA Staffing, the Frisco EconomicDevelopment Corporation, the Frisco Community Development Corporationand the Frisco Chamber of Commerce. ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Wed, 28 Mar 2012 15:41:54 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.friscohomecenter.com/blog/make-the-most-of-your-relocation-to-frisco-tx.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.friscohomecenter.com/blog/make-the-most-of-your-relocation-to-frisco-tx.html</link>
            <author>Sammy@FriscoHomeCenter.com (Sammy Gardner)</author>
            <title>Make the Most of Your Relocation to Frisco, TX</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 

 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Sat, 17 Mar 2012 11:32:46 -0500</pubDate>
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        <item>
            <guid>http://www.friscohomecenter.com/blog/hey-frisco-a-moneygram-transfer-is-coming.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.friscohomecenter.com/blog/hey-frisco-a-moneygram-transfer-is-coming.html</link>
            <author>Sammy@FriscoHomeCenter.com (Sammy Gardner)</author>
            <title>Hey Frisco - A MoneyGram Transfer is Coming... ;-)</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Welcome to Frisco Dallas MoneyGram.  


According to the Dallas Business Journal, MoneyGram plans "to hire, and relocate, 100 employees into its new compliance operations consisting of 25,287 square feet of office space at 3000 Internet Blvd. in Frisco."


MoneyGram was impressed with Frisco's available real estate options as well as the large pool of qualified resources.  They specifically stated they had looked for a community that was "progressive".  Additionally, the Frisco Economic Development Corporation chipped in a nice little incentive package to the tune of $4,800 for every job MoneyGram created.  That, along with city, county and state incentives, sealed the deal.


I am proud to live in a city that works hard to make our community attractive to innovative and growing businesses.  This will ensure that Frisco continues to thrive!
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Sat, 17 Mar 2012 10:22:12 -0500</pubDate>
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        <item>
            <guid>http://www.friscohomecenter.com/blog/phillips-creek-ranch-is-making-progress.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.friscohomecenter.com/blog/phillips-creek-ranch-is-making-progress.html</link>
            <author>Sammy@FriscoHomeCenter.com (Sammy Gardner)</author>
            <title>Phillips Creek Ranch is Making Progress!</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
The dirt is moving and the neighborhood is starting to take shape.  This is going to be a fantastic new home community in Frisco, TX and is scheduled to open the first phase in the Fall of 2012. The first neighborhood will be Sheridan.   It will have a natural playground that will be incorporated into the neighborhood park along with seating areas and open space. There will also be a large amenity center on the top of Vista Park with a traditional playground as well as fitness center and pools.  I hope you enjoy following the construction progress of this exciting development along with us.






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            <pubDate>Sun, 04 Mar 2012 19:18:43 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.friscohomecenter.com/blog/getting-your-home-ready-to-sell.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.friscohomecenter.com/blog/getting-your-home-ready-to-sell.html</link>
            <author>Sammy@FriscoHomeCenter.com (Sammy Gardner)</author>
            <title>Getting Your Home Ready to Sell</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Top Tips for Selling Your home!


CLEAN IT!  Your home really does need to be clean and ready to move in.  Buyers want to be able to unpack their kitchen and bath items right away without having to do a major over-haul to clean the home first.  


PAINTing is one of the least expensive things you can do to update your home. Twenty years ago, knotty pine cabinets and dark hardwood kitchen cabinets were all the rage.  However, in just a few days time and a little sweat equity, you can update your kitchen by painting your cabinets white.  The kitchen will appear fresh and clean.  Additionally, don't overlook tidying up baseboards as well as inside cabinets and pantries. 


CONSIDER PURCHASING NEW HARDWARE to go along with the new paint.  Brushed nickle hardware against the white background will make the cabinets "pop".  This can also help to draw the buyer's eyes away from older kitchen appliances or counter tops.  


DE-CLUTTER Know that buyer's will open cabinets, pantries and drawers.  A well-organized pantry indicates cleanliness and space. Consider investing in matching plastic containers for cereals and dry goods.  Also, fresh shelf liners are always a good idea.  Consider renting a storage unit and move out seasonal items.  Clean floors of clutter inside closets.  Make all areas of your home easy to vacuum, sweep and mop.


CONSIDER YOUR BUYER.  Try to look at your home through the average buyer's eyes.  While your lifestyle may have found it appropriate to turn your extra bedrooms into workout rooms or music rooms, consider whether or not these rooms should be converted back to their original purpose for the sake of your buyers.  Many buyers are simply unable to look past your furnishings to consider their own needs and uses for a room, especially if your room requirements caused you to paint the room some dark color or wild pattern.


MAKE YOUR BATHROOM "SPARKLE".  Nothing is more of a turn off than a bathroom where the grout is dirty or moldy or full of soap scum. At a minimum, spend an hour with a toothbrush and some bleach and scrub that grout. This is something you can do on your own in just a half a day. If your bathroom has been neglected, it may be worth the investment to call a grout professional for either cleaning or painting the grout to restore its lustre.


CONSIDER A HOME STAGER.  Check with your Realtor to find out if a home stager would be beneficial to you.  Often, they are able to offer suggestions for furniture arrangements, photo displays and other decor dilemmas that are very helpful.  
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            <pubDate>Sat, 25 Feb 2012 16:45:01 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.friscohomecenter.com/blog/frisco-is-officially-americas-fastest-growing-city.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.friscohomecenter.com/blog/frisco-is-officially-americas-fastest-growing-city.html</link>
            <author>Sammy@FriscoHomeCenter.com (Sammy Gardner)</author>
            <title>Frisco is Officially America's Fastest Growing City!</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Frisco, Texas was named America's Fast Growing City according to MSN.


The population of Frisco, TX tripled in the 2000's and was the run-away leader.  Several factors contributed to this explosive growth.







Frisco Independent School District is one of the best in the state.


Collin County Community College, Dallas Baptist University, and Amberton University all have campuses in Frisco.


The median home price in Frisco is approximately $239,000.


Median Household Income is approximately $101,600


Several Large Employers are located within or border Frisco, TX.  These include:  T-Mobile USA, JC Penney, YUM Brands, HP, Frito Lay, Dr Pepper, Intuit, Bank of America Mortgage Lending Division and many more.No wonder city officials recently gave this city 25 miles north of Dallas the slogan "Progress in Motion" — it was the fastest-growing city with more than 100,000 people in the entire country in the 2000s.


City planners have done a remarkable job in managing the growth.  Additionally, they have attracted a large retail base which helps keep property taxes at some of the lowest levels in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex.


Frisco is located just north of Dallas and is easily accessible via the North Dallas Tollway, Highway 121 and Hwy 380.


Frisco serves as home to minor-league baseball, basketball and hockey.  It also serves as home to FC Dallas.




If you are considering relocating, Frisco, TX may be just the place for you.  We would love to provide you with our Frisco Real Estate Guide.  Click here for more information. 


 


 




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            <pubDate>Wed, 15 Feb 2012 15:20:59 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.friscohomecenter.com/blog/frisco-high-school-boys-basketball-team-wins-district.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.friscohomecenter.com/blog/frisco-high-school-boys-basketball-team-wins-district.html</link>
            <author>Sammy@FriscoHomeCenter.com (Sammy Gardner)</author>
            <title>Frisco High School Boys Basketball Team Wins District!</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Congratulations to the Frisco High School Boys Basketball Team!


They are the 9-4A District Champions!  They will play Rockwall High School on February 21st in Bi-District play at Allen High School, 300 Rivercrest Blvd, Allen, TX at 7:30pm.  I am sure they would love your support!


Way to go Racoons!
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            <pubDate>Wed, 15 Feb 2012 14:37:27 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.friscohomecenter.com/blog/median-home-prices-in-frisco-tx-are-up.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.friscohomecenter.com/blog/median-home-prices-in-frisco-tx-are-up.html</link>
            <author>Sammy@FriscoHomeCenter.com (Sammy Gardner)</author>
            <title>Median Home Prices in Frisco, TX Are Up!</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
2012 is off to a great start.  Homes sales in Frisco, TX are up 27% over Jan 2011 with 164 homes sold.  Also, the median home price in Frisco is up 22% with the average sales price in January of $322,785.  The best news is for those of you looking to sale your home.  The average Days on Market for listings is now down 18%.   This just shows that despite what you may be hearing in the media, our market is still hot!  It is a great time to buy or sale real estate in Frisco!  





Thanks to Hexter Fair First American Title for providing this activity report.
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Mon, 13 Feb 2012 10:57:52 -0600</pubDate>
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